Kenya Power loses over Sh2 million to vandalism

By JAMES MWANGI

Murang’a, Kenya: Kenya Power is counting losses in excess of Sh2 million following transformers theft in parts of Murang’a County between May and June.

Occasioned by rising demand for copper wires in the market and whose price is quite attractive, about 10 transformers were vandalised in two weeks in Murang’a in what seemed to be a systematic crime wave plotted by skilled vandals.

The transformer oil which is allegedly sold to crooked food vendors was also largely targeted.

Fredrick Irungu in-charge of Operations and Maintenance Murang’a branch said the vandalised transformers cost about Sh200, 000 and when other expenses are factored in the loss escalates. The worst hit areas he said are Kigumo and Maragua Constituencies and Murang’a town.

Last year, the company was reported to have lost Sh60 million annually through transformers vandalism.

In the beginning of June, three transformers were vandalised in Kigumo division in a span of three days in a manner residents termed puzzling.

“They moved from village to village bringing them down without being noticed. The theft was carried out professionally” alleged a Kigumo resident.

However, some of the firm’s staff accused the residents of collaborating with the vandals.  

Kigumo Deputy OCPD Juma Londo told The Standard they are investigating the matter to unravel whether the criminals are employees of the Kenya Power or its retirees.

He however admitted the theft came as a surprise to the area police adding that the residents were joining forces in investigations.

Irungu however rapped the police over reluctance and failure of enough patrols to these areas. He also urged the government to streamline the copper-buying business in the country, noting this was the only solution to curbing the spiraling vandalism.